Launch Support Engineer - Exteriors (DRAFT)

Ford is seeking a senior Launch Support Engineer - Exteriors to support Advanced EV vehicle launches. This role serves as the on-site technical liaison between the Irvine design team and manufacturing, quality, supplier, and launch teams. The focus is launch execution, issue resolution, and cross-functional leadership-not TPM or hands-on design work., Lead exterior systems launch support during vehicle builds, inspections, and validation

Drive daily alignment through startup meetings, floor reviews, and cross-functional issue forums

Identify build risks, inspection needs, trials, and issues requiring escalation

Serve as the primary technical interface between design engineering and on-site teams

Review CAD (CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE) to assess design intent, interfaces, tolerances, build feasibility, and launch risk

Apply engineering fundamentals (GD&T, fit-and-finish, A-surface, sealing, water management) to resolve issues

Lead and support problem-solving activities, including PPAP and A/B problem solving

Support paint trials, quality investigations, and manufacturing process improvements

Ensure exterior systems meet design, functional, and appearance expectations at launch

Technical Scope - Exterior Systems:

Fascias, glazing, exterior trim Wiper/washer and exterior lighting systems Injection-molded plastics, thermoformed components, glazing materials, exterior finishes Interfaces between exterior systems and body structure

8+ years automotive experience with OEM launch support

Strong design engineering background with prior hands-on experience

Proven success in fast-paced launch environments with manufacturing, quality, and suppliers

CAD review experience in CATIA 3DX (CATIA V5 or Siemens NX acceptable)

Strong understanding of GD&T, fit-and-finish, A-surface quality, sealing, and water management

Familiarity with issue-tracking systems (e.g., JIRA)

Okay with up to 50 % travel to Ford manufacturing sites Experience working at Ford or GM previously